The Florida Museum’s 40th celebration of collections and collectors shows collecting isn’t only for scientists! This free, popular event has attracted collectors from across the region for 40 years. Visitors can chat with collectors of all ages to learn the history of their treasures — from cowboy and Pokémon memorabilia to classic cars and stereoviews.

Previous Collectors Days

Why do we celebrate collectors at a natural history museum?

Collecting pens or spatulas isn’t much different than collecting fossils or plant specimens. Having a collection allows your scientific mind to analyze a lot of very similar objects, and you begin to see even subtle similarities and differences.

Training your scientific mind to collect, analyze, catalog, and preserve is at the root of where many of our own scientists began. Looking closely, and asking questions. And we think that’s a wonderful thing to celebrate!